Bari

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About Bari

The people of Bari love to repeat this phrase: "If Paris was on the sea, it would look like a small Bari". Obviously, this is an exaggeration, but it tells us a lot about the pride (and sense of humour) in this area. This is a city with a deep sense of history and art, with rich cultural roots and a modern business outlook.

Bari was an important city under the Greeks, became a Roman municipality, and was later governed by the Saracens, the Venetians, the Normans, the Aragons and finally the Bourbons before finally becoming a part of Italy. As a link between the Greek and Middle-Eastern worlds, Bari experienced its Golden Age during the medieval period. The glories of that age are perfectly symbolised by the stupendous Cathedral and Church of San Nicola.

The Emperor Augustus Promenade – the main thoroughfare in the city – is also worthy of note, as is the Nazario Sauro Promenade, which provides a magnificent walkway along the sea front, as well as superb views over the city itself. To the left, is the S. Nicola jetty where every year, on the 8th of May, the ceremony of the thaumaturgy statue takes place. The statue is taken to sea on a boat where it is worshipped by pilgrims and believers. In this area, you can sample the marvellous seafood in the working class bay area known as the “nderre a la lanze”.

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Activities

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Landmark

La Città Vecchia (The Old City)

The extraordinary Old City largely consists of narrow and winding streets, making it a charming place to stroll around. You will find all the important medieval monuments, such as the Swabian castle and many churches, including the Cathedral of San Sabino and the Basilica of San Nicola. When the hunger kicks in there are plenty of bars and restaurants to head for where to enjoy some yummy food!

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Landmark

Il Castello Normanno-Svevo (The Norman Swabian Castle)

This building was originated by Roger II (1139) and destroyed at least twice by the people of Bari, in protest again the tyranny of the Normans. Finally, Frederick II rebuilt it, almost completely, between 1233 and 1240 and thanks to him, today, we can enjoy a visit to this important piece of history.

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Going out

Demode Club

A musical and cultural centre, Demode Club is a spacious venue where to enjoy concerts with national and international artists, including well-known and newcomers but also a place where to dance your shoes off to music like rock, hip hop and 90s. The Demode Club is a good place to have fun with friends and get to know new people that shares your taste in music!

Tips

Good to know

Public Transport

The city of Bari is easy to walk around, but every corner of the city is still well connected by the company AMTAB (Azienda Mobilità e Trasporti di Bari), so have a look at the website below to check the buses' schedule. You can buy your tickets at every "Tabacchini" around the town. There are different ticket types to choose from, one-hour ticket, the daily ticket or the weekly ticket.